The public is invited to help celebrate protection of the Reese Homestead Project area at a dedication Sunday, June 3, beginning at 1 p.m. Representatives of the Reese Family and the private-public partnership that protected the land will introduce visitors to the new 280-acre public area on the Loess Hills Scenic Byway. 

Locals know the Reese Homestead, north of Turin, as both a historic bed-and-breakfast and a focal point for area conservation activities. The property has been recognized as a nationally significant area within the Loess Hills  National Natural Landmark. 

This  was the home of the Reese family from 1856 until the family helped arrange for the area's permanent protection through the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation. The homestead will serve as a Loess Hills interpretive site, and a cabin will be available for rental.

Comments from family & partners

"We are all connected to the lands of our ancestors, and in a way, the land claims us," says Jo Reese Nelson. "This land has been a spiritual home to our family for 150 years, and we feel responsible for it. We are delighted that this partnership will care for it and make it available for the public to enjoy as we have."

“We’re glad to help ensure that this bit of Loess Hills beauty and history will remain a gift to all Iowans , as an attraction for the community and visitors for generations to come,” said Craig Hartman, chair of the Monona County Conservation Board (MCCB).

“The opportunity to protect a richly diverse natural landscape, a world-class landform, and to work with partners who will now offer this resource for public enjoyment and appreciation is exciting!” said Tim Sproul, Loess Hills Land Conservation Consultant with the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation.

Background

"Partners plan public conservation area near Turin," August 2010 news release  

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For more information, call Monona County at 712-249-0300.